Best-Selling Sci-Fi Author Steve Alten Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast.  The world-famous sci-fi writer Steve Alten, whose novel Meg: A Novel of Deep Terror (Bantam Doubleday, 1996) inspired the forthcoming summer action film, “The Meg,." is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.."  The flick depicts the heart pounding story of a vicious megalodon – thought to be a long-extinct, extremely fierce ancestor of the great white shark that is discovered by a research team in the Pacific Ocean’s Mariana Trench (the deepest place on Earth) and unleashed upon humanity.  The movie, which can be described as “Jaws on steroids,." is scheduled for general release on August 10.  Following that first book, Alten went on to pen a whole “Meg Series." of best-selling sequels involving the megalodon, in addition to a wide variety of other creatures and fantastic adventures.  Harrison and Alten take a deep dive (if you’ll pardon the expression) into a wide variety of fascinating subjects including the state of science fiction, independent publishing in the digital era, the movie business, and new discoveries in science about life in unexpected places including the moons of Jupiter and Saturn.  They also talk about Alten’s struggle with Parkinson’s Disease and the extremely close relationship he has forged over the years with his loyal fan base.  To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview." located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.

Trump at NATO Meeting Top News/Talk Story for Week of July 9-13. This week’s meeting between President Trump and other leaders of NATO countries was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the Trump-Russia investigation and the related, impending meeting between Vladimir Putin and President Trump.  Coming in at #3 was the Trump administration’s illegal immigration and asylum policies, followed by the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh at #4.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  See this week’s entire chart here.

Cool Talk Show Host Opportunity in Twin Cities. With the retirement of late morning talk host John Hines, Entercom’s WCCO-AM, Minneapolis/St. Paul is searching for an experienced on-air news/talk talent.  Candidate must have ability to make an emotional connection with and build listener loyalty on-air, conduct entertaining interviews, and interact with callers.  Must exude personality and not be afraid to have strong opinions as well as possess the ability to entertain in person.  A strong command of current affairs, news, pop culture, and sports are a must.  Candidate is required to have strong social media connections and ability to engage listeners in a digital setting. Must have major market experience along with a proven track record.  Operations manager Andy Bloom says, “What I find is that too many talk show hosts know the talking points or can recite what FOX/CNN/MSNBC say.  I’m looking for somebody who actually read the Supreme Court decision on the travel ban, somebody who has read some of the writings of the four finalists to replace Kennedy, somebody who reads the bills Congress votes on, etc.."  See more about this position here.  Reach out to Andy Bloom via andy.bloom@entercom.com.

Round Three of June PPM Data Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio‘s June 2018 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Cincinnati, Orlando, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s June 2018 survey period covered May 24 – June 20. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.  Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways." from these 12-PPM markets.

TWELVE TAKEAWAYS

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – Over and above logging a four-tenths’ gain (8.0 – 8.4, 6+), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB repeats at #1. After three straight months in sole possession of first-place, KOPB shared the top spot in April with iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW “K-103 Portland’s Best Variety.." Twelve recent trends for KOPB include +.9 (March 2017); -.8 (May); +.6 (June); -.9 (July); +.6 (August); +1.4 (September); -1.1 (October); +1.1 (January 2018); -1.1 (February); +1.0 in March; -1.0 (April); and -.5 (May). Entering the September 2017 sweep, KOPB occupied the runner-up position 21 successive times; however, it finally reached #1 in that report. Off a combined one-half share in May and June (5.4 – 5.3 – 4.9, 6+) after a +.6 in April, Alpha Media news/talk KXL “101 FM News – Stay Connected." slips from fourth to fifth. When KXL faltered by four-tenths in March, it ended three consecutive increases that produced a cumulative +1.7. Prior to January, the last time KXL reached the five-share level (6+) was in October 2013 (5.3). Stuck on 1.6 (6+) in April and May, iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend on Us." adds one-tenth to 1.7 (flat at 1.9, 6+). An April improvement of two-tenths stopped three straight up or flat trends that netted six-tenths (1.2 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+). Meanwhile, Alpha Media news/talk KUFO “Freedom 970." posts a 1.0 (6+) for the fourth time in a row, but drops from #23 to #24. Among the market’s sports talkers, Entercom’s KFXX “1080 The Fan." is flat at 1.5 and is unchanged at #21 (6+); Alpha Media-owned KXTG “The Game." repeats May’s 1.3, again finishing at #22 (6+); and iHeartMedia’s KPOJ “Sports Radio 620." completes the lack of May 2018 – June 2018 movement by remaining steady at .9/#25 (6+).

Portland Music Formats – At least for the time being, the market’s two classic rockers are going in opposite directions. Specifically, Entercom’s KGON “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock." is a collective +1.4 in three straight up or flat trends (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.4, fifth to fourth, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s KFBW “105.9 The Brew." is an overall -1.5 in its fourth decrease in succession (5.4 – 5.1 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 3.9, 6+), drifting from the top ten (#7 to #12). This (5.4) is the first time that KGON has reached the five-share level (6+) since September 2017’s 5.2; “The Brew." hadn’t been below a four-share (6+) since November 2017 (3.9, as well). In addition to progressing from ninth to sixth, Entercom adult hits KYCH “97.1 Charlie – We Play Everything." notches a +.2 to 4.6 (6+) to snap three negative moves in succession that accounted for a -1.4 (5.8 – 5.2 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+). Off one-tenth in May (3.9 – 3.8, 6+), co-owned KWJJ “99.5 The Wolf, Great Country for the Great Northwest." answers with a +.8 in June to 4.6 (6+), zooming from #12 to #6 with its finest 6+-showing since September 2017 (4.6, as well). Its format foe – Alpha Media’s KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 for New Country." – is flat at 4.0 (6+) but climbs from #11 to #10. “The Bull." had been without an increase in three successive sweeps for a -1.6 (4.9 – 4.7 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+) before wiping out nearly half that deficit in May with a +.7. There is no May 2018 – June 2018 change in the (6+) AQH share (7.3) or rank (#3) of iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH “106.7 The Eagle,." which had been -.6 in March; +.6 in April; and +1.2 in May (6.1 – 5.5 – 6.1 – 7.3, 6+). An overall +1.6 as the result of five consecutive upticks (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.4, 6), Entercom alternative KNRK “94.7 – It’s Different Here." falters by four-tenths to 4.0 (ninth to tenth, 6+). May’s 4.4 marked the first time KNRK reached the four-share level (6+) since February 2014 (4.2).

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – Not only does University Radio Foundation news talk WFAE break out a one-half share increase to 4.1 (6+), “Charlotte’s NPR News Source." enters the top ten (#13 to #10). Prior to June, WFAE featured a very consistent January 2018 – May 2018 topline trending of 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.6 (6+). It was a combined -1.2 in December and “Holiday." 2017 (4.2 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to 2.8 (steady at #17, 6+), Entercom news/talk WBT applies the brakes to three straight losses that accounted for a -1.7 (4.3 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, 6+). Immediately prior to this streak, WBT was a collective +1.2 in three increases in succession  (3.1 – 3.2 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+). Co-owned sports talk WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader." is down or flat for the third successive sweep for a total loss of one full-share (1.7 – 1.7 – 1.1 – .7, #18 – #19, 6+); “The Fan." bounced back from February’s -.7 with a one-half share gain in March.

Charlotte Music Formats – Not since September 2017/October/November has the same Charlotte station repeated at #1; iHeartMedia classic rocker WRFX “The Fox." accomplished the feat back then. In the meantime, it has been a revolving door for the top spot which has been held (in chronological order) by iHeartMedia adult hits WLKO (December 2017); Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC (“Holiday." 2017); iHeartMedia country WKKT (January 2018); Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV (February); WRFX (March); WKKT (April); and WBAV (May). Bragging rights in June go to Beasley Media Group’s WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits." (6.2 – 6.9, +.7, fourth to first, 6+). Moreover, WSOC has its best 6+-performance (6.9) since “Holiday." 2016’s 7.0. Its format challenger, iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country,." follows May’s -.6 with a June loss of four-tenths (7.0 – 6.4 – 6.0, third to fourth, 6+). “The Kat." was +1.9 (January); -.7 (February); +.6 in March; and -.6 (May). Prior to January 2018, the last time WKKT was #1 was August 2017 – WSOC was #1 the previous month (July 2017). Exiting the penthouse and shifting to second is Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9,." which surrenders all but two-tenths of May’s impressive +1.4 (7.9 – 6.7, -1.2, 6+). Ups and downs continue for its CHR sibling WNKS “Kiss 95.1,." which was without an increase in three straight sweeps for a -.4 (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+); +.8 in May; and now -.9 in June (5.0 – 4.1, sixth to tenth, 6+). May’s 5.0 is the best 6+-stat for “Kiss." since July 2017’s 5.1. Still in that Beasley Media Group cluster, adult contemporary WKQC “K-104.7 More Music – Better Variety." is a collective -1.7 in May and June following April’s +1.2 (6.4 – 5.4 – 4.7, fifth to sixth, 6+). In February, WKQC rebounded from January’s -5.0 with a gain of three-tenths; “K-104.7." was -1.1 in March. A one-tenth spike to 3.3 (#15 to #13, 6+) by Radio One gospel WPZS “Praise 100.9 Charlotte’s Inspiration Station." concludes four straight decreases that resulted in a collective -1.6 (4.8 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+). Off by one-half share are iHeartMedia alternative and CHR siblings WEND “106.5 The End – Charlotte’s Alternative Rock." (#12 to #14, 6+) and WHQC “Channel 96.1 All The Hits." (3.6 – 3.1, #13 to #15, 6+). “The End." has its third decrease in a row for a -1.1 (4.3 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.2, 6+), while “Channel 96.1." logs its softest 6+-share since “Holiday." 2017 (3.1, as well).

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – Albeit that the 6+ topline January 2018 – June 2018 trending for iHeartMedia news/talk WOAI is a consistent 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 4.0, “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather." nonetheless slips from sixth to tenth. A January +1.6 took WOAI to its best 6+-showing since last May (4.4, as well). Prior to that, “News Radio 1200." was -.9 as the result of four straight sweeps without an increase (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 2.8, 6+). Up or flat the past five reports for a collective +.6 (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected." returns one-tenth in June to 1.8 and is flat at #21 (6+). Without a loss for the third straight time for a +.5 (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+), Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX carries on at #14. Immediately before April’s +1, KSTX was a combined -1.9 through three consecutive negative trends (4.7 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+). With a +1.0 to 4.7 in “Holiday." 2017, KSTX crossed the four-share level (6+) for the first time in its PPM-history. Off one-tenth in back-to-back survey periods (.7 – .6 – .5, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station." falls from #27 to #30.

San Antonio Music Formats – An eight-tenths’ uptick  (2.7 – 3.5, 6+) enables Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love." to jump from #17 to #13 with its best 6+-showing since September 2017’s 4.2. Having more than doubled (+1.3) its 6+ AQH share through four increases in a row (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 2.4, 6+), co-owned contemporary Christian KZAR returns one-half share to 1.9 (6+) as San Antonio’s version of “Air 1 Positive Hits." dips from #19 to #20. After three downward moves in succession for an overall -.7 (7.3 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.6, 6+), KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits." dials up a +.4 to 7.0 (6+) and is #1 for the sixth sweep in a row. The Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies outlet spent ten straight months at #1 before shifting to #2 in December 2017 and remained there in “Holiday." 2017. Recent (6+) fluctuations for KONO-FM include +1.1 (January 2017); +.8 (April); -.6 (May); -.5 (August); +.7 (October); -.9 (December); -.9 “Holiday." 2017; +1.8 (January 2018); and +.5 (February). Below a three-share (6+) for the first time since November 2017’s 2.7, Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KXTN “107.5 Tejano & Proud." drops seven-tenths (3.5 – 2.8, #13 to #17, 6+). Co-owned regional Mexican KROM forfeits all of its combined April and May +.5 and one-tenth more (5.5 -.6, 6+) as “Que Buena 92.9." slips from second to fourth. Four positive spikes in succession by iHeartMedia CHR KXXM netted a +1.8 (3.2 – 3.3 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 5.0, 6+), but “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station." is an overall -.6 in May and June (5.0 – 4.9 – 4.4, fifth to sixth, 6+). The combination of iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station." regressing by four-tenths (6.1 – 5.7, flat at #2, 6+) and Cox Media Group’s KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader." adding four-tenths (5.3 – 5.7, fourth to second, 6+) finds the two country rivals locked together in the runner-up slot. The overall +2.7 that KAJA racked up in January and February (4.1 – 5.2 – 6.8, 6+) was cut virtually in half in March and April with a collective -1.3; however, “KJ-97." answered with a +.6 in May. Prior to January, “KJ-97." was -.9 in four successive down or flat sweeps (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+). When “Y-100." slipped one-tenth in May, it halted four straight up or flat trends for an overall +1.3 (4.1 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – After posting a +2.0 in April (5.8 – 7.8), Entercom sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan." is -1.3 in May and June (7.8 – 7.4 – 6.5, 6+), skidding from third to fifth. April’s 7.8 is the strongest 6+-showing for the Pittsburgh Pirates flagship since October 2015 when it scored a 10.1. “The Fan." was a combined +1.3 in “Holiday." 2017 and January 2018 but then -.9 in February. Meanwhile, co-owned news/talk KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020." improves by two-tenths to 4.4 (tenth to ninth, 6+), thus curtailing four sweeps in a row without an increase that produced a -1.1 (5.3 – 5.3 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.2, 6+). A +1.3 in January halted four down or flat trends in succession that eventuated in a loss of eight-tenths (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+). Up one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+), Essential Public Media news/talk WESA carries on at #13. Before dropping one-half share in April, “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station." was an overall +.8 as a result of three consecutive up or flat moves (2.1 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). January’s +.6 halted three successive downward trends that resulted in a -1.1 (3.2 – 2.8 – 2.4 – 2.1, 6+).

Pittsburgh Music Formats – Format rivals WDSY “Y-108 Pittsburgh’s Country." (4.4 – 4.9, 6+) and WPGB “Big 104.7 Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country." (2.7 – 3.2, 6+) each enjoy one-half share gains. Entercom’s “Y-108 advances from ninth to seventh with its best 6+-stat (4.9) since November 2017’s 5.0, while “Big 104.7." shifts  from #12 to #11, logging its strongest 6+ AQH share since October 2017 (3.3). Registering a May 2018 – June 2018 +.5 as well – both in the iHeartMedia cluster – are classic hits-oldies WWSW “94.5 – 3WS." (9.9 – 10.4, #1 for the 16^th consecutive time) and rock WDVE (8.2 – 8.7, in the runner-up slot for the sixth successive sweep, 6+). A combined +.9 in March and April (10.3 – 11.1 – 11.2, 6+), WWSW forfeited -1.3 in May; “3WS." lost seven full-shares in January (16.4 – 9.4, 6+). WDVE was +1.6 (October 2017); -1.0 (November); -.8 (“Holiday 2017."); +.8 (January 2018); -.9 (February); and -.5 in March. October’s 10.2 marked the first time WDVE reached double-digits (6+) since March 2017 (10.4). Surrendering in its entirety the +1.2 it garnered through four successive sweeps without a decrease (4.2 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 5.0 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative WXDX “105.9 The X." drops from seventh to tenth (5.4 – 4.2, -1.2, 6+). Even though Steel City Media adult hits WRRK posts its fourth straight down or flat trend for an overall loss of nine-tenths (7.9 – 7.8 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.0, 6+), “96.9 Bob FM." manages to climb from fifth to third.

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – Down or flat for the fifth straight sweep, iHeartMedia-owned KFBK is an overall -2.3 (8.6 – 8.1 – 8.1 – 7.8 – 6.7 – 6.3, 6+) but remains in the runner-up slot. “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station." was third in December 2017; second in “Holiday." 2017; up to first in January 2018; back to second in February; up again to first (tied with KSEG) in March; and back to second in April and May. KFBK was down or flat in October – November – December for an overall loss of seven-tenths (7.8 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 7.1, 6+). It logged a +1.3 in “Holiday." 2017 and followed with a +.2 in January 2018 to 8.6 – its best 6+-stat since January 2017’s 8.7. Flat at #14, co-owned KSTE “Talk 650." is trending 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.4 (6+). KSTE was +.6 in December; -.5 in “Holiday." 2017; and +.6 in January to 2.7, its highest 6+-share since June 2017’s 2.8. Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ is up a collective seven-tenths in May and June (4.3 – 4.7 – 5.0, fifth to fourth, 6+). KXJZ posted a one-half share gain in January but was a combined -1.1 in December and “Holiday." 2017 (5.3 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+). Entercom’s KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320." is trending 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 (#19 to #22, 6+), while co-owned KHTK “Sports 1140." is without an increase for the seventh time in a row for a -1.7 (2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.3 – .9 – .9, flat at #25, 6+).

Sacramento Music Formats – Not only is Entercom-owned KSEG #1 for the fifth time in a row, “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock." is a robust +1.9 in May and June (8.0 – 9.0 – 9.9, 6+). A January gain of +2.0 by “The Eagle." essentially erased a combined -2.2 in December and “Holiday." 2017; KSEG was an overall -1.6 in September and October (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.1, 6+). In the first four ratings reports of the year, “The Eagle." had a (6+) topline of 8.2 – 8.3 – 8.1 – 8.0; June 2018’s 9.9 is its strongest 6+-showing in nearly two years (10.3, July 2016). Co-owned KKDO “Alt 94.7 Sacramento’s Alternative." dials up a +.6 (3.4 – 4.0, 6+) and continues at #11. Its CHR cluster-mate KUDL, however, returns in its entirety the +1.0 it achieved in May (4.6 – 5.6 – 4.6, fourth to fifth, 6+). As a result of its May increase, “106.5 The End." ended three straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a setback of eight-tenths (5.4 -5.2 – 5.2 – 4.6, 6+). In five straight up or flat trends, Entravision-owned KXSE bettered its 6+ AQH share by two and a half times (1.0 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.5, 6+), but “La Suavecita 107.1." stumbles in June by three-tenths to 2.2 (6+), falling from #13 to #17. This is the 14^th ratings period in succession that Entercom’s KRXQ has recorded a 6+-share between 4.0 – 4.9 (4.0 – 4.1, tenth to eighth, 6+). In May, “98 Rock." returned the six-tenths it gained in April. The market’s 6+ country share improves by six-tenths, completely erasing May’s -.6. Specifically, Entercom’s KNCI “New Country 105.1." adds two-tenths (4.1 – 4.3, ninth to sixth, 6+); Entravision-owned KNTY “101.9 The Wolf." regains the one-tenth it lost in May (2.4 – 2.5, #15 to #13, 6+); and iHeartMedia’s WBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country." is up three-tenths (2.1 – 2.4, #17 to #14, 6+). “New Country." was an overall +.9 in three consecutive positive or flat trends (3.5 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.4, 6+), before surrendering two-tenths in April. As a result of three successive increases, “The Wolf." gained seven-tenths (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+), but was -.5 in April. Immediately prior to May’s -.4, “The Bull." was up or flat the previous four reports for an overall gain of seven-tenths (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.5, 6+).

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to being up a collective one-half share in three consecutive progressive or flat moves (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.9, 6+), Broadway Media-owned KALL “ESPN 700 – Utah’s #1 Sports Talk." enters the top twenty (#22 to #20). Off three-tenths (5.2 – 4.9, 6+) after May’s whopping -2.9, Bonneville’s KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM." repeats at #6. Immediately prior to the May sweep, KSL (#1 in April) was +3.0 as a result of four consecutive increases (5.1 – 6.4 – 6.7 – 6.9 – 8.1, 6+) and a combined -3.2 just before that in three straight negative moves (8.3 – 6.5 – 5.7 – 5.1, October – November – December – “Holiday." 2017, 6+). A +.3 to 4.1 (6+) in May by iHeartMedia’s KNRS ended three successive down or flat moves that accounted for a -.2 (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.8, 6+) but “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know." returns one-tenth to 4.0 (flat at #9). KNRS was +.8 in November; a combined -1.0 in December and “Holiday." 2017; and +.7 in January. An overall -1.3 as the result of not logging an increase for three successive sweeps (4.1 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+), University of Utah news/talk KUER is now a combined +.3 in May and June (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1, steady at #15, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – Stuck on 3.9 (6+) in March and April before slipping to 3.7 in May, Broadway Media-owned KXRK “X-96 Utah’s Original Alternative." erupts with a +.7 (3.7 – 4.4, 6+) as it advances from tenth to eighth. The last time “X-96." crossed the four-share level (6+) was October 2017 (4.1). Down (slightly) in each of the past three sweeps for an overall loss of six-tenths (3.0 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+), Brigham Young University’s KBYU “Classical 89." erases the deficit with a +.6 to 3.0 (#18 to #16, 6+). At the same time that independent KSOP-AM “Classic Country AM 1370." improves by one-half share (.4 – .9, #25, 6+), co-owned KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country." sputters by seven-tenths (4.6 – 3.9, eighth to tenth, 6+). It is a brief one-month run at #1 for Bonneville-owned adult contemporary KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better Music Better Work Day,." which erodes by one full-share (7.3 – 6.3, 6+) and segues to the runner-up slot. Up nine-tenths in March – only to lose nine-tenths in April – “FM 100.3." had been on top for six straight ratings periods (November 2017 through March 2018). While it doesn’t inherit any of KSFI’s -1.0, Cumulus Media adult contemporary KBEE “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites." (flat at 3.3, 6+) improves from #12 to #11. This (3.3) is the best 6+-stat for “B-98.7." (which was +.6 in May) since September 2017’s 3.5. Succeeding KSFI at the top is KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits,." which actually loses one-tenth (6.9 – 6.8, second to first, 6+). Prior to June’s -.1, the iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies outlet nearly doubled (+3.4) its 6+ AQH share through five successive up or flat trends (3.5 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.9, 6+). May 2018 marked the first time KODJ reached the six-share level (6+) since its 6.6 in June 2016. Noteworthy ups and downs continue for Capitol hot AC KBZN “Now 97.9 Today’s Best Music,." which was -.5 (March); then -.6 (April); +.6 (May); and now -.9 in June (5.7 – 4.8, fourth to seventh, 6+).

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – A positive spike of four-tenths (2.0 – 2.4, 6+) by Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR enables the news/talker to progress from #20 to #14. Three consecutive improvements that accounted for a +1.0 (1.9 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+) were directly followed with a -.9 in April and May (2.9 – 2.6 – 2.0, 6+). Meanwhile, the market’s (6+) commercial news/talk share decreases by four-tenths as Entercom’s KXNT “News Talk Radio 840." drops three-tenths (2.0 – 1.7, #20 to #21, 6+), while Beasley Media Group news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk." is down one-tenth (1.1 – 1.0, #24 to #25, 6+). Before dropping one-tenth in March, KXNT was up or flat in three successive sweeps for a +.2 (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+). A one-half share decrease in March concluded five straight positive or flat trends (.7 – .7 – .7 – .7 – 1.3 – 1.4, 6+) that doubled KDWN’s 6+-share. Lotus Communications sports talk KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100." drops two-tenths (.8 – .6, flat at #27, 6+), while KRLV “Fox Sports Radio Las Vegas." is flat at .5 (#29, 6+).

Las Vegas Music Formats – In each of the last 18 ratings periods, Lotus Communications Spanish adult hits KWID was within three-share range, but that streak concludes as “La Buena 101.9." registers a gain of six-tenths to 4.4 (ninth to eighth, 6+), its strongest 6+-showing since 4.5 in “Holiday." 2016. Without an increase the past four sweeps for an overall -1.1 (3.7 – 3.6 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+), Entercom alternative KXTE “X-107.5." carves the deficit roughly in half with a +.6 to 3.2 (#13 to #12, 6+). Notwithstanding that it is down one-tenth (7.0 – 6.9, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE “Sunny 106.5 Better Music for a Better Workday." repeats at #1. In May, “Sunny." succeeded Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies KKLZ “96.3 – 70s, 80s and More." at #1. It is a familiar pattern between the two stations as “Sunny." was off six-tenths in April and replaced by KKLZ at #1. The two swapped places at the top in March as well. In December, KKLZ was ousted from the penthouse by “Sunny." after five straight months there. In addition to holding the lead in December 2017 and March 2018, “Sunny." was #1 in “Holiday." 2017 (12.5, 6+). Meanwhile, KKLZ is off four-tenths in June (6.2 – 5.8, 6+) and continues in second-place. Included in a five-way logjam at #14 is Lotus Communications’ KOMP “92.3 The Rock Station,." which posts a +.2 to 2.4 (6+), snapping at three a consecutive string of decreases that accounted for a -1.3 (3.5 – 2.9 – 2.3 – 2.2, flat at #18, 6+). That streak followed three upticks in a row that netted six-tenths (2.9- 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+). Regressing by one-half share each are Entercom hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1." (unchanged at #3, 6+) and Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point – #1 For Classic Rock." (4.2 – 3.7, eighth to ninth, 6+). Prior to June’s -.5, “Mix." was a collective +.7 in three straight up or flat trends (5.4 – 5.5 – 6.1 – 6.1, 6+).

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – The rollercoaster ride definitely continues for iHeartMedia news/talker WLW, which was a combined +2.0 in January and February; -1.0 in March; +1.6 in April; -1.2 in May; and now +1.4 in June (7.7 – 9.1, 6+). Moreover, the Cincinnati Reds flagship marches from fourth to first. June’s 9.1 is its highest 6+-share since last October’s 9.2. Prior to January, WLW was a collective -3.3 as the result of five straight negative trends (9.6 – 9.4 – 9.2 – 8.0 – 7.2 – 6.3, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WKRC is down a combined full-share in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+) as “55 KRC The Talk Station in Cincinnati." slides from #11 to #14. WKRC’s +.3 in January ended three downward moves in a row that accounted for a -.9 (4.2 – 4.2 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+). Four-tenths ahead of WKRC is Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU, which is up three-tenths (2.9 – 3.2, 6+) advancing from #13 to #11; WVXU was a collective +.7 in January and February. Off two-tenths (1.4 – 1.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530." slips from #17 to #18.

Cincinnati Music Formats – The 6+ topline January 2018 – May 2018 trending for Radio One urban AC WOSL is 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5. In June, however, “100.3 R&B + Old School." breaks out a +.7 to 3.2 – its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday." 2017’s 3.4 – to progress from #14 to #11. New to the top twenty (at #16) is Grant County Broadcasters’ WNKN “Classic Country." (1.5 – 2.0, +.5, 6+). Not only does Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR exit the top spot after five straight months at #1 and shift to #2, “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits." is down for the third consecutive sweep for a collective -2.2 (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.6 – 8.2, 6+). Its -.6 in April curtailed three consecutive up or flat trends that accounted for a cumulative +2.9 (7.5 – 9.6 – 9.6 – 10.4, 6+). WGRR rebounded from a -1.6 in December and “Holiday." 2017 (9.1 – 8.5 – 7.5, 6+) with a January +2.1. Eroding by nine-tenths each are Hubbard’s WUBE “B-105.1 – Get Your Country On." (7.7, second to fourth, 6+) and Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies WDBZ “Soul 101.5." (1.6 – .7, #16 to #24). The June loss by “B-105.1." pulls the plug on five consecutive upticks that netted +2.8 (5.8 – 6.3 – 7.8 – 8.1 – 8.3 – 8.5 – 8.6, 6+); WUBE was -1.4 in December. An overall +.9 in three successive increases (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.3, 6+), “Soul 101.5." faltered by seven-tenths in May. April’s 2.3 is the best 6+-showing for WDBZ since November 2017 (2.3, as well). After registering a 6+-share between 4.1 – 4.9 ten straight times, iHeartMedia CHR WKFS “Kiss 107.1 – Cincinnati’s #1 Hit Music Station." drops three-tenths to 3.9 (6+) but continues in tenth-place.

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – Having dropped two-tenths in May (3.5 – 3.3, 6+), Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida." answers with a one-half share gain to 3.8 (#13 to #12, 6+). WMFE was off one full-share in February and March (3.9 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+). With its lowest 6+-showing since January’s 3.9, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want." (5.3 – 4.0, -1.3, 6+) tumbles from seventh to tenth. A combined +3.0 in January and February (2.2 – 3.9 – 5.2, 6+), WTKS dropped three-tenths in March and was +.6 in April. January’s +1.7 ended three straight down or flat trends that resulted in a -.7 (2.9 – 2.9 – 2.4 – 2.2, 6+). In five straight sweeps without an increase (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM is -1.4 as “News 96.5." slumps from #11 to #13. Entering the January sweep (in which it notched a +1.3), WDBO-FM was a collective -2.7 via four straight decreases (6.1 – 5.1 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+); “News 96.5." was +2.0 in September 2017. Sputtering by three-tenths (1.8 – 1.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WFLF is flat at #16. Immediately before gaining seven-tenths in January, WFLF was without an increase in five straight ratings periods for a -.7 (1.9 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+). Tied at #19 are iHeartMedia sports talk WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader." (flat at 1.0, 6+) and Cox Media Group sports talk WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando." (.9 – 1.0, +.1, 6+).

Orlando Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia’s WRUM on top for the sixth consecutive sweep, “Rumba 100." adds seven-tenths (10.5 – 11.2, 6+). In advance of the May sweep, WRUM was +1.8 in four upticks in succession (8.9 – 9.3 – 9.5 – 9.9 – 10.7, 6+). Following 11 consecutive months at #1, WRUM dropped to the runner-up slot in December and remained there in “Holiday." 2017. Its +.4 in January 2018 ended four negative sweeps in a row that generated a collective -2.7 (11.6 – 11.5 – 11.4 – 11.3 – 8.9, 6+). April 2017’s 12.8 is the best-ever 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Cox Media Group country WWKA “K-92.3." and WRUM adult contemporary cluster-mate WMGF “Magic." (6.2 – 6.7, fourth to third, 6+) each gain one-half share. “K-92.3." is now +1.6 through four successive positive spikes (4.0 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 5.6, ninth to sixth, 6+). Following three upticks in a row – each by two tenths – that generated a +.6 (8.3 – 8.5 – 8.7 – 8.9, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WXXL “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station." relinquishes all but one-tenth of that increase (8.4, -.5, 6+) but remains in the runner-up slot.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats – Five successive up or flat sweeps by Entercom’s WKRK netted a +1.2 (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+) but “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan." is now a combined -1.8 in three straight setbacks (5.2 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.4, #11 to #12, 6+). Owing to three consecutive increases, iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM was +1.3 (5.3 – 5.5 – 6.3 – 6.6, 6+); however, “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio." slips in June by one-tenth to 6.5 (6+). Even so, WTAM actually improves from seventh to fifth. May’s 6.6 is the best 6+-stat for the Cleveland Indians flagship since October 2017’s 8.3. January’s one-half share gain halted three straight declines for a -3.5 (8.5 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+). Ideastream-owned WCPN is unchanged at 2.6 (6+) and flat at #13. The public news/talk outlet was a combined -2.5 in February and March (5.3 – 3.6 – 2.8, 6+) after a cumulative +3.2 in six straight improvements (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 5.3, 6+).

Cleveland Music Formats – Tacking on nine-tenths to May’s +1.1 (7.1 – 8.0, 6+), Entercom’s WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock." jumps from fourth to second and has its finest 6+-performance (8.0) in exactly one year (8.4, June 2017). Immediately in advance of the May ratings period, WNCX was a cumulative -.3 as the result of three straight sweeps without an increase (6.3 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+). Roaring back from May’s -1.5 with a +.6 (9.3 – 7.8 – 8.4, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits." rises from second to first. This now makes nine dramatic up/down shifts in succession for WMJI: +.8 (November); -.9 (December); +2.5 (Holiday." 2017); -1.9 (January); +1.9 (February); -2.0 (March); +1.0 (April); -1.5 (May); and now +.6 in June. When “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits." reached double-digits (6+) in “Holiday." 2017, it was the first time WMJI accomplished that feat since September 2016’s 10.8. November’s +.8 stopped three straight declines that resulted in a -1.3 (9.2 – 8.9 – 8.4 – 7.9, 6+). In 2017, WMJI occupied the top spot from January through April; July through September; and in November. It succeeds Radio One urban AC WZAK, which is -3.3 in three hefty losses in a row (10.1 – 9.6 – 8.1 – 6.8, first to fourth, 6+). After three consecutive increases for an overall +1.5 (8.6 – 9.1 – 9.5 – 10.1, 6+), WZAK faltered by one-half share in April. Having reached the top spot in December with a +.9, WZAK fell to third in “Holiday." 2017. A loss of four-tenths in October ended three consecutive positive moves for an overall +.9 (7.5 – 7.6 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+). When iHeartMedia’s WGAR posted a +.8 in May, it thwarted three straight negative moves that resulted in a -1.0 (7.2 – 6.8 – 6.3 – 6.2, 6+), but “99.5 – Cleveland’s #1 for New Country." flounders by six-tenths in June and dips from fifth to sixth (7.0 – 6.4, 6+). It is tied with Entercom adult contemporary WDOK, which surrenders three-tenths to 6.4, curtailing three increases in a row for an overall +1.8 (4.9 – 5.4 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+). A combined +5.5 in December and “Holiday." 2017 (4.9 – 7.2 – 10.4, 6+), “Cleveland’s Star 102." lost more than 50% (-5.6) of its 6+-share in January and February (10.4 – 5.6 – 4.9, 6+).

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – Three decreases in a row by Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM accounted for a -.5 (1.1 – 1.0 – .7 -.6, 6+), but “Talk Radio 710." picks up one-tenth to .7 (6+) and remains at #23. A combined +1.9 in April and May (1.8 – 3.1 3.7, 6+), Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio." forfeits eight-tenths to 2.9 (#12 to #14, 6+). The Kansas City Royals flagship erased February’s -.4 with a +.4 in March. Meanwhile, Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810,." an overall -2.0 in April and May (4.0 – 2.9 – 2.0, 6+), notches a +.1 to 2.1 (#20 to #18, 6+). WHB was a combined +1.4 in “Holiday." 2017 and January 2018; -.9 in February; and +.9 in March. When “Sports Radio 810." dipped by four-tenths in December, it halted at five a successive string of positive trends that doubled (+1.5) its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). It is tied at #18 with Entercom’s KMBZ-AM “Talk 980,." which was locked on 2.2 (6+) in April and May before slipping one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) in June. After registering six successive increases for a +1.9 (3.7 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.9 – 5.6, 6+), news/talk sibling KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather." follows with four straight decreases for a -1.5 (5.6 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.1, eighth to tenth, 6+). Regaining the one-tenth it lost in May (2.8 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KCUR progresses from #17 to #15. Prior to May, it was up nine-tenths as a result of six straight up or flat trends (1.9 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+).

Kansas City Music Formats – On the heels of May’s +.7, Carter Broadcast Corporation urban contemporary WPRS “Hot 103." adds a full-share in June (5.9 – 6.9, 6+) and climbs from fourth to third. It previously was off nine-tenths as the result of three straight downward trends (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.4 – 5.2, 6+). Through five successive decreases (8.1 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 3.5, 6+), Steel City Media adult contemporary KCKC witnessed its 6+-share spiral by more than 55% (-4.6) but “KC-102.1 Today’s Best Variety." rebounds with a +.6 to 4.1 and is back in the top ten (#13 to #10). In six consecutive monthlies without a loss, Entercom-owned KQRC “98.9 The Rock." is a combined +1.7 (4.5 – 4.5 – 5.0 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 5.8 – 6.2, fifth to fourth, 6+). One Cumulus Media outlet leaves the top spot and another replaces it. In June, KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station." improves by two-tenths to 7.2 (6+) and proceeds from second to first. Last on top in February, “The Fox." had been -1.6 via through three decreases in succession (8.6 – 8.0 – 7.6 – 7.0, 6+). Displaced from the lead position and falling to second is cluster-mate KCMO-FM “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits,." which had been #1 the past three sweeps. The classic hits-oldies outlet is now a combined -1.0 in three successive dips (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.1, 6+). It faltered by six-tenths in February (8.4 – 7.8, 6+) but regained half that loss (+.3) in March. Owing to a -2.0 in January, “Kansas City’s Greatest Hits." curtailed four straight positive spikes that netted +2.7 (7.7 – 8.0 – 8.8 – 9.0 – 10.4, 6+). Alternative sibling KCJK “X-105.1." returns all of May’s +.5 and two-tenths more (2.7 – 2.0, -.7, #17 to #20, 6+). Establishing a down/up pattern, co-owned urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3." is trending 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.4 (#11 to #12, 6+). Notwithstanding that it remains in fifth-place, Steel City Media’s KBEQ “Q-104 New Hit Country." is without a loss in each sweep since December 2017 for an overall +2.0 (3.9 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 5.9, 6+). It is tied with co-owned KFKF “Country 94.1." (6.0 – 5.9, -.1, third to fifth, 6+), which was up one-half share in May, thus wiping away the -.5 it recorded through three decreases in a row (6.0 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+). The market’s other country FM – Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf." – drops two-tenths (4.8 – 4.6, 6+) but carries on in eighth-place.

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – Unchanged at #6, iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN’s 6+ March 2018 – June 2018 topline is 5.4 – 5.6 – 5.4 – 5.3. “News Radio 610." was -.7 in March; -1.0 in February; +1.5 in January; and -.6 in “Holiday." 2017. Prior to January 2018, the last time WTVN reached the seven-share level (6+) was February 2016 (7.3). A December decrease of three-tenths halted three straight uptrends that netted eight-tenths (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+). A collective +.7 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (3.6 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), Ohio State University news/talk WOSU dropped six-tenths in April; rebounded in May with a +.5; but surrenders three-tenths in June (4.2 – 3.9, flat at #7, 6+). WOSU’s 4.3 in March was the station’s best 6+-showing since 4.7 in August 2017. Following four reports in a row without an increase for a -.2 (.9 – .9 – .8 – .8 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WXZX was +.3 in April and May, but “105.7 The Zone." drops one-tenth in June (1.0 – .9, flat at #15, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – Slightly up or flat in each of the last four ratings periods for an overall gain of six-tenths (6.4 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 6.7 – 7.0, 6+), Saga Communications’ WLVQ “FM 96 Iconic Rock." remains in third-place. In the runner-up slot for the sixth time in a row, iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WNCI hauls out a +1.3 and is up or flat for the third successive sweep (9.0 – 9.4 – 9.4 – 10.7, 6+). This is the strongest 6+-stat for “97.9 Columbus’ Hit Music Station." since October 2017 (10.7, as well). WNCI was a combined +1.5 in January and February (8.0 – 9.2 – 9.5, 6+). Despite that stellar profile, WNCI is still five full shares behind cluster-mate WCOL “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country,." which not only finishes at #1 for the sixth consecutive sweep but logs its third increase in a row for an overall +3.4 (12.3 – 13.4 – 14.4 – 14.5 – 15.7, 6+). In double-digits (6+) each sweep since June 2017, WCOL registers perhaps the largest 6+-stat (15.7) in PPM-history in a sweep that did not include all-Christmas music. Accustomed to major fluctuations, “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country." was +2.2 (January 2017); -1.2 (February); +.8 (March); -1.3 (May); +1.4 (June); +2.1 (July); -.9 (August); -.6 (September); +.7 (October); -.5 (December); +3.1 (January 2018); -1.7 (February); +1.1 in March; +1.0 in April; and now +1.2 in June. After spending six months on top, WCOL shifted to second in “Holiday." 2017 but regained the lead in January 2018. Frozen on 3.0 (6+) in February and March and then on 3.4 (6+) in April and May, co-owned urban contemporary WZCB falters by seven-tenths to 2.7 as “106.7 The Beat." departs the top ten (#10 to #11, 6+). A collective +.5 in three straight up or flat trends (3.2 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR WCKX “Power 107.5." returns all of that increase and extra one-tenth (3.1, -.6, eighth to ninth, 6+). Despite dropping one-half share (3.7 – 3.2, 6+), One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “104.9 The River." continues in eighth-place.

Tags: June 2018, Mike Kinosian, Nielsen Audio, PPM survey, ratings

Category: Front Page News, Industry News